When you think of Cambodia, most people picture Angkor Wat, rich history, and backpacker trails—not online casinos. But here’s the twist: Cambodia has quietly become a major player in the online gambling scene in Southeast Asia.
If you’ve been watching the iGaming world like I have, you’ll know Cambodia’s role in this space isn’t just interesting—it’s kind of wild. So let’s dive into what’s really happening behind the digital tables.
Cambodia’s Gambling Laws: A Tale of Two Markets
Here’s the thing—gambling is legal in Cambodia, but only for foreigners. Locals are technically banned from gambling, both online and offline. However, enforcement is… inconsistent.
For years, Cambodia allowed hundreds of land-based and online casino operators to set up shop—especially in cities like Sihanoukville. Most of these businesses targeted players in China and other countries, offering live dealer games and full-scale betting platforms.
But in 2020, things changed. The Cambodian government banned online gambling operations—mainly due to pressure from China. Sounds like the end of the story, right? Not quite.
What’s Happening Now?
Even with the ban, the online casino scene didn’t vanish—it just got quieter and more underground. Some operators relocated. Others continued operations discreetly. And now, in 2025, we’re seeing signs that Cambodia is slowly re-opening to digital gambling—but with stricter regulations and a shift in audience.
Instead of just serving Chinese players, Cambodian-based platforms are starting to appeal to a broader Southeast Asian market, including Vietnam, Thailand, and even locals using VPNs.
Why Cambodia Became a Casino Hub in the First Place
A few reasons:
- Lax regulation (historically) – Cambodia was once one of the easiest places to get a casino license.
- Cheap infrastructure – Lower costs made it appealing for operators to set up streaming studios and live dealer setups.
- Location – Strategically placed between Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos, it’s perfectly situated to target multiple markets.
What Games Are Popular?
Live dealer games are huge—baccarat, roulette, and sic bo, mostly. Cambodian studios are known for their well-produced, multilingual live casino content. There’s also growing demand for slot games and sports betting platforms, especially for football and eSports.
Interestingly, some Cambodian platforms now offer crypto gambling too, which is trending big across Southeast Asia.
Is It Safe to Play on Cambodian Casino Sites?
Here’s where things get tricky. Because of the crackdown and lack of clear regulation for online gambling, it’s hit or miss. Some sites are legit, licensed offshore (like in Curacao), and offer high-quality games. Others? Not so much.
That’s why it’s important to:
- Stick to well-reviewed, established brands
- Avoid platforms with no licensing info
- Use secure payment methods (and avoid shady crypto-only sites unless you know what you’re doing)
The Future of iGaming in Cambodia
Cambodia still has the potential to be a regional iGaming powerhouse. If the government introduces clear regulations and licensing for online platforms, it could attract legit operators back to the country.
Until then, the online casino industry will likely continue to evolve quietly—fueled by demand, regional players, and a deep-rooted casino culture.
Final Thoughts
Cambodia’s online casino story is anything but boring. From booming industry to sudden ban, and now a cautious comeback—it’s one of the most dynamic gambling markets in Asia.
If you’re a player or affiliate looking to explore this market, the key is to stay informed, stick with reputable sites, and always prioritize security and responsible play.
As always, I’ll be keeping an eye on the latest developments and sharing updates on the best legit casino sites in Southeast Asia. Stay tuned!